About the song
“El Paso,” a timeless western ballad penned and performed by Marty Robbins, has cemented its place in music history since its release in 1959 on the iconic album “Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs.” This narrative-driven song swiftly captivated listeners, ascending to the top of both country and pop charts and clinching the Grammy Award for Best Country & Western Recording in 1961. Its enduring appeal lies not only in its musical arrangement but also in the gripping tale it weaves.
The storyline unfolds in El Paso, Texas, during the Wild West era, narrated by a cowboy who frequents Rosa’s Cantina and falls passionately for Feleena, a captivating Mexican dancer. Jealousy ignites a fatal confrontation when the cowboy discovers Feleena with another man, resulting in a deadly duel and the subsequent flight from justice. The protagonist’s undying love for Feleena draws him back to El Paso despite the looming threat of death, leading to a tragic conclusion in the arms of his beloved.
Robbins’ masterful storytelling is complemented by haunting harmonies and evocative Spanish guitar accompaniment by Grady Martin, creating a Tex-Mex ambiance that enhances the song’s narrative depth. The decision to switch from past to present tense midway through underscores the urgency and emotion of the protagonist’s journey, enhancing the song’s dramatic impact.
Recognized by the Western Writers of America as one of the Top 100 Western songs of all time, “El Paso” continues to resonate through numerous cover versions and adaptations. The Grateful Dead notably embraced the song, incorporating it into their repertoire with over 300 performances, highlighting its enduring appeal across different musical genres and audiences.
Beyond its musical acclaim, “El Paso” has sparked creativity in various forms, from instrumental renditions by Grady Martin to playful parodies like “El Pizza,” underscoring its cultural influence and versatility. Its legacy endures not only as a musical gem but also as a testament to the power of narrative storytelling within the realm of country and western music.
As a pivotal piece in Marty Robbins’ repertoire, “El Paso” remains a poignant reflection of love, jealousy, and destiny set against the backdrop of the Old West, immortalizing its place in the pantheon of classic American ballads.
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Lyrics
Out in the West Texas town of El Paso
I fell in love with a Mexican girl
Nighttime would find me in Rosa’s cantina
Music would play and Felina would whirl
Blacker than night were the eyes of Felina
Wicked and evil while casting a spell
My love was deep for this Mexican maiden
I was in love, but in vain I could tell
One night, a wild young cowboy came in
Wild as the West Texas wind
Dashing and daring, a drink he was sharing
With wicked Felina, the girl that I loved
So in anger
I challenged his right for the love of this maiden
Down went his hand for the gun that he wore
My challenge was answered in less than a heartbeat
The handsome young stranger lay dead on the floor
Just for a moment, I stood there in silence
Shocked by the foul evil deed I had done
Many thoughts raced through my mind as I stood there
I had but one chance and that was to run
Out through the back door of Rosa’s I ran
Out where the horses were tied
I caught a good one, it looked like it could run
Up on its back and away I did ride
Just as fast as I
Could from the West Texas town of El Paso
Out to the badlands of New Mexico
Back in El Paso, my life would be worthless
Everything’s gone in life, nothing is left
It’s been so long since I’ve seen the young maiden
My love is stronger than my fear of death
I saddled up and away I did go
Riding alone in the dark
Maybe tomorrow, a bullet may find me
Tonight nothing’s worse than this pain in my heart
And at last here I am on the hill, overlooking El Paso
I can see Rosa’s cantina below
My love is strong and it pushes me onward
Down off the hill to Felina I go
Off to my right I see five mounted cowboys
Off to my left ride a dozen or more
Shouting and shooting, I can’t let them catch me
I have to make it to Rosa’s back door
Something is dreadfully wrong, for I feel
A deep burning pain in my side
Though I am trying to stay in the saddle
I’m getting weary, unable to ride
But my love for Felina is strong and I rise where I’ve fallen
Though I am weary, I can’t stop to rest
I see the white puff of smoke from the rifle
I feel the bullet go deep in my chest
From out of nowhere Felina has found me
Kissing my cheek as she kneels by my side
Cradled by two loving arms that I’ll die for
One little kiss and Felina, goodbye